Pupils in the first grade at Morrison Academy in Taichung, Taiwan have developed a strong independence as readers and writers. The core of their reading, writing, speaking, and listening comes from twenty-seven high quality literature books. Two top priorities of these first graders are comprehension and vocabulary. Using the Open Court program these students are able to enhance their phonics, which is a vital part of bringing security and depth to the students reading skills.
Part of their curriculum is to use the effectiveness of the writing process. This process allows the students to brainstorm and organize ideas, draft their writings, obtain peer and teacher feedback, revise, edit, and then publish various and selected pieces. Spelling is developed through context as opposed to isolation. By using the D’Nealian script model, handwriting becomes less laborious as motor skills develop.